Specializing in on location, natural light portrait photography in the San Francisco Bay Area, I also have access to a studio in San Jose for "Rainy days". If you have a project you would like to discuss, I look forward to hearing from you!

Sunday, April 27, 2014

If your plans are letting the kids take over the kitchen to create breakfast in bed,

why not add a little something extra just in case the toast gets burnt?

There's nothing wrong with hedging your bets.

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So now through Saturday, May 10th,

enter to win a special Mother's Day gift package,

and give her a gift that will last a lifetime.

This gift prize, includes your choice of a family or contemporary couture Gift Voucher valued at $350(Which covers not only your session fee but includes a $100 credit that can be used towards your print purchase.)

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For clients that have had a session within the last 6 months, and would rather win a prize, they may substitute the Gift Voucher for a 12" x 18" wrapped canvas print using one of their session images!

or Book a Session to capture your family in 2014, so she has something to hang on her walls long after the burnt toast smell has gone.

Your gift certificate package comes in one of these pretty
Suzi Worley Photography Tote Bags. The 13" x 5" x 13" Chocolate Tote is perfect for carrying your images, a mini market run, or a petite picnic with a French baguette and bottle of her favorite wine.

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Be sure to enter below and let us know which gift voucher you would like to win!

Saturday, April 12, 2014

Easter is right around the corner, which means summer isn't far behind. As I get ready for the “busy season” of photography, I thought I’d share with you some of the most common questions regarding “Getting ready for a session”, and help you start preparing now.

What to wear is a huge one, but it’s one of the most easy to address. We discuss wardrobe during the pre-consultation, I often get texts or videos of outfits prior to the session, and some clients and I even share a Pinterest board. It’s a great way to start planning your day, and the right outfit can help accentuate your best features!

Many of my clients state they wish to loose a few pounds, quite often this can be addressed with proper posing and clothing choices, so I won't get into that here.

Instead I’m going to address pampering yourself, because worries about wrinkles, age spots, and frizzy hair are often the largest area of concern. What worked a few years ago, suddenly isn't working, and many of my clients mention they could use a bit of a pick-me up but they just don't know where to begin. If you feel you could be in this category as well, read on:

Give your hair some TLC—this can be a huge one. If you have frizzy flyaway hair from the dryer than normal winter, start using a hair mask Your hairstylist should be able to tell you what product your hair needs most. Start early, so you can find the one that works best with your hair before the summer wind, and chlorine starts taking their toll. If you haven't changed your hair since the 90's (or earlier) it's likely time to look into some new styles!

Session Tips

If you’re planning on getting extensions, color, or a new cut; be sure to do so two weeks before your session so that you have time to get used to it.

Guys or women with shorter hairstyles should get their hair cut one week before so if there’s any tan lines, they have a chance to blend in.

Pamper Your Skin! If you have no idea where to start, visit with a licensed esthetician to discuss your skin care regimen and to address any problem areas you may have. If you're on a budget, there are some great over the counter treatments you can get that will help make your skin look youthful.

Exfoliate - Treat yourself to an at home spa day and exfoliate your entire body at least once a week. Look for products with a grain to them. (sea salt, sugar, ground nuts, small seeds, etc.)

Worried about wrinkles? Look for a product with Retinol in it, or try Acupuncture to help reduce the worry lines. Better yet, schedule a massage and disconnect from technology for an hour our so, it does wonders for your worry lines!

Moisturize Morning, Noon, & Night.

Morning -- Have you discovered BB Cream? These amazing creams are tinted moisturizers that even out your skin tones are packed with anti-oxidants and usually contain sunblock. Use it on your neck and face as well. I put it on in the morning, and either use it as a base prior to my foundation, or just as a protective coverage if I’m going to be working in the yard, because sometimes quick and easy is a good thing.

Noon -- During the day, remember to re-apply your sunscreen, and be sure to put on lotion or oil after your shower, bathe, or swim to lock in the extra moisture.

Night -- Is the perfect time to use a moisturizer with something containing Retinol A, and Vitamin C, it works while you sleep and helps repair the damage caused by your activities during the day.

Cleanse -- Take your make-up off at night. If you’re too exhausted for a full blown regimen, invest in some make-up removal wipes.

Get in the habit of cleaning your make-up brushes too. Even if you only use them for one blusher, etc, they still absorb dirt and oils, and could be the reason for break-outs.

Facial Treatment -- There are some great facial products you can make at home using things you likely already have in the refrigerator and kitchen cupboard.

Session Tips

If you're planning on having a professional facial done prior to your session, be sure to schedule it the day before your session.

If you are planing on having any lash extensions, hair removal, or brow shaping done, schedule this one week before your session.

Please don't use self tanning creams prior to your session. If you spray tan, do so a week before.

Nails -- Pamper your nails and feet too. This should be considered a habit not a luxury,as your feet and hands work hard to get you where you need to go, and deserve a little "me time".

Session Tip

Make sure to schedule a pedicure/and manicure the day before your session to make sure your nails look their best. And unless it's a fashion themed shoot, stick with something that's timeless for your nails, so the focus will be on you.

Hydrate. Remember to drink water, or other replenishing juices. (Wine is not considered a replenishing juice.) If you hate water, add some fresh fruit, veggies, or herbs to flavor it, vs processed sugars. (Cucumber/Mint, Lavender/Lemon, Orange/Rosemary are all great combinations.)

There are quite a few over the counter products that do a great job of helping you look your best, or you can even make your own. I'm always adding to my Pinterest DIY Board if you'd like some ideas. By putting a little extra time into your routine, you'll be ready for whatever comes your way this summer! (Including the camera!)